There are hundreds of acres of sand dunes immediately behind the event venue, and you're going to LOVE the ability to spectate, then ride the dunes, then toss your ski in and ride the surf yourself.
This is a great resource for places to stay here:
http://www.classiccalifornia.com/lodging.htm
For those who are challenged in finding the specific "hotel/motel" link
http://www.classiccalifornia.com/hotels.htm
A little background for those who have never visited the area:
Oceano (the official town where the event will be held - part of the "5 Cities" area, including Pismo Beach - my hometown) is a small coastal community located on spectacular Highway 1 in San Luis Obispo County. With an ideal, Mediterranean type climate year-round, Oceano enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year! The terrain is made up of gently rolling hills and sand dunes, lush foliage and vineyards. There are lots of things to do in the area, but the biggest attraction is the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area. Here the dunes are recognized as being the most extensive coastal sand dunes in the state. This 1,500-acre area not only allows people and horses on the beach, but also four-wheel drive vehicles, all-terrain vehicles and dune buggies! In Oceano, driving on the beach has become a sporting event! The beaches and nearby state parks and lakes in the area offer an abundance of outdoor recreation. For a real treat, take the breathtaking scenic drive up Coast Highway 1 to San Simeon and the famous Hearst Castle. Take your time along the way stop to stop and explore some of the coastal towns’ many antique and specialty shops. Oceano has lots of character with small businesses, hotels and bed and breakfasts, and a multitude of restaurants.
Surrounding areas: Grover Beach, (1.3 mi), Pismo Beach, (3.8 mi), Nipomo, (8.5 mi), Avila Beach,(8.6 mi), Arroyo Grande, (12.0 mi), San Luis Obispo, (12.2 mi), Los Osos, (19.4 mi)
A Mild, Mediterranean climate describes the central coast of California that lies between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Cool ocean breezes keep temperatures from becoming too hot in the summertime. Low clouds and patchy fog are common on summer days, but it almost always burns off by midday. Conditions are very dry, and the occasional summer thunderstorm produces so little precipitation that range and forest fires often result from lightening strikes. In winter, the semi-permanent Pacific Ocean high help keep the weather beautiful. Many visitors take advantage of the spectacular mild, sunny weather the central coast has to offer fall through spring.
