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Riding along the Pacific Ocean is a rite of passage for anyone who loves to bike, but it’s easily traveled by car, too. Here’s how you can make the most of a journey from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo with the new Venture X card from Capital One.
Although this adventure is mostly enjoyed on a bike, it begins with a flight to San Francisco. This is perfect because Venture X cardholders earn 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel and free price drop protection on flights recommended by Capital One Travel. That means Capital One Travel keeps monitoring the price of the flight after you buy it. If the price drops, you’ll get a refund for all or part of the price difference.
While in the Golden City, I’m planning to explore the Sutro Baths, which was once a popular place to swim, and grab a bite to eat at Devil’s Teeth Baking Company. Then, I’ll hop on the bike and make my way toward Santa Cruz. I always keep my eyes peeled for highlights along the route. If I see any great lookouts or notable landmarks, I’ll pull out my camera and snap a few photos.
Above: Fireside Inn on Moonstone Beach
Companion Bakeshop is a perfect place to stop for breakfast before leaving Santa Cruz. On the trek down, be sure to visit 17-Mile Drive in Monterey, which is about halfway between Santa Cruz and Big Sur. The scenic road, which can be traveled by bike or car, boasts breathtaking views of coastal cliffs and famous golf courses. With Venture X, visiting top destinations is easier because you’ll receive 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) each year after renewing your account. You can put those bonus miles toward a future rental car or your next stay in Big Sur.
Once in Big Sur, swing by Big Sur River Inn and Restaurant. If you love unique dining experiences, this is the spot for you. While enjoying a delicious meal along the bank of the Big Sur River, dip your feet in its smooth, cool water. Further down the coast, I’ll stop for the night at Fireside Inn on Moonstone Beach where I can cozy up by a gas fireplace in one of the newly renovated guest rooms. Some rooms even boast an ocean view, furnished patio, or jetted tub. There are also several wineries and mom-and-pop restaurants in the area if you have time to explore.
Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
After waking up bright and early to watch the sunrise, fuel up for the day at Hidden Kitchen. My go-to order is a batch of the blue corn waffles. Then, when I make it to San Luis Obispo, I’m going to indulge in one of the pastries from Scout Coffee. Venture X cardholders earn 2X miles on every purchase, everywhere, every day, so stopping at local spots can help you earn miles to fund your next adventure. Before heading home, I’m going to visit Avila Beach. If you aren’t based in San Luis Obispo, you can relax after a successful trip at one of the hotels along the water.
I have found that traveling via bike forces you to slow down and really savor every experience. With the new Venture X card from Capital One, credit card touring — which means exploring with minimal gear and a reliable card — is easier than ever before. You’re able to take advantage of cardholder benefits, like 10X miles on hotels and rental cars when you book through Capital One Travel, along the route. I also love that you can save up your miles, which don’t expire for the life of your account and have no blackout dates, for future adventures. So, where will Venture X take you?
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