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The Cayucos Pier sees everything from surfers to sea life. Travelers stay in surrounding hotels and wake up to the sounds of the ocean. There are coffee shops and restaurants to fuel every part of your day. From the beach, you might spot a specific restaurant. A beach shack. Schooners is a popular dining destination in Cayucos. Located in the heart of the beach town, you do not want to miss a sunset on this patio. Only feet from the sand, there is plenty of reasons to eat and drink at Schooners in Cayucos.
All photos in this post are mine except otherwise indicated. This post was written based on my personal experience. I was not paid, reimbursed or otherwise solicited to write this post. Just a girl looking to share her favorite places. Cheers!
1. The Food
You have several seafood choices at Schooners. From Ahi Tuna to clam chowder to lobster macaroni and cheese, you are sure to satisfy that hankering. Though I am not a tuna fan, my family loved the horseradish crusted ahi served with mashed potatoes.
Each time I have been to Schooners, I have been insistent on ordering the Lobster Macaroni and Cheese. Each time the cheesy noodles have come intertwined with chunks of lobster. Along with sautéed peppers and bacon, this traditional comfort dish has been completely revamped.
In addition to the lobster macaroni and cheese, I have ventured out to other dishes. The clam chowder was a perfect choice on a cooler day. Sitting on the patio with a sweatshirt on, the clam chowder was the perfect dish to conclude our beach weekend.
See over 500 reviews for Schooners on YELP.
2. The Drinks
One of the many great things about Cayucos is its proximity to Paso Robles. There is a local selection of wine on almost every drink menu. Schooners offers white and red wines and has a cocktail menu to choose from. With a full bar inside, you have additional options to make your own drinks. Everyone has a different beach drink. Mine is a lemon drop, and the chilled and shaken Tito’s cocktail has kept me coming back time and time again.
3. The View
To the west, the Pacific Ocean looks back at you. The Cayucos Pier allows for people watching, along with the sand and beach. You will see bonfires being made and sand castles being built. Depending on the tide, surfers may be in the distance. If you go for dinner, you may be able to catch the awe inspiring sunset. The yellow and orange rays have set over our table multiple times and it never gets old.
4. The Weather
Some days you might need a heavy jacket, others you might find yourself in a tank top. Depending on when you visit, the weather will vary. We have been to Schooners when I was shivering on the patio and other times wearing shorts and a t-shirt. One thing is for sure, I would sit on that patio in snow, rain, hail, you name it.
Cayucos has typical beach weather. Some days will be overcast and cloudy and other days you will not be able to avoid the sun. As long as you come prepared, you can enjoy the weather from the patio.
5. The Location
North Ocean Drive cuts right through Cayucos. With North Ocean Drive to the east and the beach to the west, this is a prime location. There are plenty of motels and inns nearby.
Looking to start your day? Check out 4 of the best coffee shops in Cayucos.
Whether you are planning a trip to Cayucos or are just looking for inspiration for your next vacation, I hope you enjoyed reading about my favorite places. The only thing better than visiting these spots and enjoying them is getting to share them with friends and family. Please comment if you have tried Schooners and tell me how you liked it.
I am always open to recommendations. If you have any favorite spots in Cayucos, please share them below!
Cheers!
