You may be wondering—what’s the closest airport to San Luis Obispo? Or what’s the closest airport to Paso Robles? Well, the answer is simple, and actually very interesting!
Major Airports Near San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles
There is, in fact, only one “major” airport here, and it’s right in San Luis Obispo itself, serving all of San Luis Obispo County including Paso Robles!
San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) used to be a sleepy little hub, but not anymore. A significant new terminal expansion in 2016 has proved to be a game changer, and there are now direct flights from Seattle, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Denver, Dallas, Portland, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and more. With a connecting flight, you can get here from nearly everywhere in the U.S. Carriers include American, United and Alaska.
And once you land at SBP, you’re a short drive away from anywhere in SLO County, from downtown San Luis Obispo to the coastal beaches to the Paso Robles wine country—wherever your best SLO County vacation rental is located.
Paso Robles Airport Taking Off
Now, Paso Robles does have an airport, but there are no commercial flights, it’s for private air travel only. If that’s how you roll, then you can land right in the heart of the Paso Robles wine country at Paso Robles Municipal Airport.
But there are also bigger plans in the works. The City of Paso Robles has a vision for a new “Air & Spaceport” operation. This will include a Paso Robles Space Innovation Technology Park, which will combine aerospace and educational components while providing a commercial platform “capable of operating horizontal access to deliver small satellite systems to space.”
Major Airports Drivable to San Luis Obispo County
If you don’t mind a bit of a drive—say, under three hours—you have plenty of other alternatives to SLO County airport.
Located just two hours from Paso Robles, Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is in the heart of California’s Central Valley.
Travelers also enjoy the ease of getting in and out of Santa Barbara Airport’s (SBA) beautiful and safe terminal, which is located a one hour, 45-minute drive from San Luis Obispo. The airport takes pride in its locally made retail items; family restrooms; and modern “lactation pod.”
Santa Maria Airport (SMX) is another great option just a 40-minute drive from San Luis Obispo. SMX boasts free parking and a pleasant and safe environment. The airport is also known for its non-stop flights to and from Las Vegas, as well as the nearby Santa Maria Museum of Flight and annual air shows featuring historic aircraft. Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is a two-hour drive from Paso Robles. The airport is working on a new terminal, and offers easy access to California’s Central Coast.
Known as Silicon Valley’s airport, the San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC) has a greater variety of flights and is a two hour, 45-minute drive from Paso Robles. SJC has received accolades for its child-friendly amenities. Meanwhile, the San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located three hours and 15 minutes from Paso Robles, while the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is situated three-and-a-half hours south of San Luis Obispo.
Where Are the Best Vacation Rentals in San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles?
Once you book a flight within reach of the beautiful Central Coast, you’ll need idyllic accommodations! We have access to an extensive variety of immaculate properties that are near the California Central Coast’s most sought-after destinations. Allow us to find your home away from home. Our personal service is unbeatable. From intimate beach cottages to large homes with all of the amenities, we will help find your best SLO County vacation home!