About Paso Robles

In Spanish, our name means “Pass of the Oaks,” a tribute to the rolling hills and majestic oaks that captivated our pioneers. Today, these oaks are joined by vineyards, olive orchards, farms and ranches that inspire our local cuisine and culture.

Paso Robles resides midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles on California’s Central Coast. Our community of 29,500 residents is known for its warm hospitality and entrepreneurial spirit. The heart of our downtown is called City Park, a classic plaza featuring grand old shade trees, a Carnegie library, a children’s playground and a traditional bandstand that serves as the centerpiece for our many events. All around the park, restaurants, wine bars, pubs, inns and specialty shops set a relaxed and flavorful tone amid early 20th century-style architecture.

Just minutes from town, along country roads, you will discover what Sunset Magazine recently called the West Coast’s “most exciting wine region,” where more than 200 wineries make their home.

Brimming with good taste yet always down to earth, Paso Robles is pleased to be in your plans. We look forward to showing you around.

Official Name

El Paso de Robles (Spanish for “Pass of the Oaks”)

Population

Estimated at 29,950

Elevation

Sea level to 721 feet; located 17 air miles east of the Pacific Ocean

Area Of Town

Approximately 19 square miles

Climate

When summer and fall days heat up, it’s just a matter of time before ocean breezes billow inland through the gaps, cooling everything back down. Ironically, it’s this same coastal air that also keeps things from getting too cold in the winter.

Rainfall

Precipitation averages 12 inches to 14 inches per year.

Auto

Situated along highway 101, Paso Robles is located 230 miles north of Los Angeles and 210 miles south of San Francisco. It is 70 miles west of Interstate 5. For car rentals, Enterprise Car Rental is a local provider. Contact: (805) 239-0628. A wealth of transportation services, including shuttle vans, limousines, buses, trolleys, wine tour companies and even helicopter tours, are also at the ready.

Air

The Paso Robles Municipal Airport serves charter flights, including larger private jets. Contact: (805) 237-3877. The San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport offers commercial air travel just 32 miles south of Paso Robles. Contact: (805) 781-5205.

Rail & Bus

Amtrak and Greyhound depots are located at Paso Robles’ North County Transit center. The Coast Starlight train makes two stops daily, southbound and northbound. Amtrak buses also pick up at the depot. For information, contact the Transit Center at (805) 238-1242. A county bus also runs between San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles. Contact: (805)-541-2228.

Visitor Services

A Visitor Center is located at 1225 Park Street for maps, visitor guides and helpful recommendations.

Media & Film Permits