Lighthouse Century: seeking recommendations for lodging and restaurants

[Yen]

Several members of our bike group are planning to participate in the Lighthouse Century in September. We always stay at the same place and have dinner together on Friday/Saturday evenings before and after the ride.

Can anyone recommend good places for lodging and dinner? I know the event site lists places to stay, but I'm seeking recommendations from people who have been there and would go again.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.... thanks.

[big john]

It probably doesn't help but I've stayed in the campground across the hwy from the ride start. It has hot showers and there is a golf course/driving range there, if you're so inclined. In the morning you just ride across the road to the start, (does it still start at Cuesta College?).
I eat so much on the ride that I am not interested in going out to dinner after and just drive home.

[Yen]

Thank you big john. Some of us may want to camp so I'll keep this option in mind. Our group enjoys a happy hour (we each take an appetizer and bottle of wine) the night before, then a pasta dinner out, and a celebration dinner on the night of the ride. Yes, we ride to eat.

[Hendo252]

Try tripadvisor.com for info....

[Yen]

Hendo - I'm doing that, but I'm seeking recommendations from others who've done this ride.

[Lesper4]

I just got the cheapest place in town "san luis inn and suites" I think, not great by any means but nice to sleep in. then I drove to the start (but they moved it this year?

[Pamestique]

One of my favorite places to stay is the Travelodge on Marsh downtown... its just up the street from the Apple Inn (which is nice but more expensive than I can afford) and within walking of many great places downtown and several very nice restaurants. If you book early enough ask for the large rooms in the back - bike friendly and easy to share. Find the "Big Sky" for the best meals in town. If you like B & B's try the Garden Street in the heart of downtown SLO...

Here is the restaurant info: bigskycafe.com

[bernmart]

Please note that the route has been substantially changed for this year, and the ridestart and finish is at Morro Bay HS. I've always found cheap lodging in SLO, but Morro Bay will be tougher

[Yen]

Thanks Pam, but we're looking for a place (or places) closer to the venue in Morro Bay. We've already booked a couple of places very close to it. But Hubby and I love SLO and will keep your recommendations in mind for the future.

[herbm]

I always stay in Morro bay...great for the fri eve dinner...and very close to the start...and prettier than SLO....
BTW..this is an AWESOME ride....be ready at your computer when registration opens...it sells out very very fast!

[Smogsteve]

I like the Blue Sail Inn. great rooms with a view of the rock. Not cheap but close to this years start. the Bayside inn not so nice. No AC not too clean. Morro shores inn and suites are nice. Be aware that these hotels are just about full. I made my reservations 3 days ago and Blue sail is down to 4 rooms. Most other places are filling up fast acording to members of my bike club.

[cdp8]

If you are a foodie, I highly recommend the Sculptured Egg in Los Osos.

It is a breakfast only place and we always hit it the morning after the Wildflower or Lighthouse. It's a bit out of the way. It's a bit pricey for breakfast. Its owners can be eccentric. Read the reviews on Yelp and TA. People love it or hate it. If the 1 star reviews sound like they could be written by you or you love IHOP or Denny's, then please skip it. But if you're a foodie, it will be one of the best breakfast experiences of your life. The owners deserves a James Beard award; it's that good.