San Luis Obispo Nightlife - Clubs, Bars & Nightlife Tips

Part college town, part beach town, San Luis Obispo is a pretty laid-back place with many things to do. Here's how to find a good spot and enjoy the San Luis Obispo nightlife.

McCarthy's is local bar located in the heart of San Luis Obispo. It's usually packed with wall to wall with college kids. If you like crowded college hangouts, this is the place to go.

Mother’s Tavern also caters mainly to the to the college scene. The specialty hamburgers make In-N-Out burgers look tiny. It has a large dance floor and an overall fun atmosphere.

This is one of the top dive bars in California. Expect a small mix of college kids and old timers at the bar in Bulls. The beers are cheap, it’s somewhat quiet, and it has some cool ceiling tiles custom-made by previous customers.

The Downtown Brewing Company has two levels. Downstairs is a dance floor and live music; upstairs is a bar and restaurant. Service can be slow, but the atmosphere is great.

This is a neat little pub with a rather big backyard. There's live music on the weekends. Bring or buy a Frog and Peach glass on Tuesday night and you get Bud Light or Guinness for next to nothing.

Mission Grill plays restaurant by day and college bar by night. It also has a large dance floor and live music.

Editor's Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about San Luis Obispo nightlife.