This Labor Day weekend is a paradise for those seeking refuge from triple-digit temperatures, with choppy waves, cool waters and ocean breezes drawing crowds to the normally quiet coastal town of Cayucos.
“It was crazy. It was the busiest Labor Day weekend I’ve ever seen, on par with the 4th of July,” said Jennifer Dorn, general manager of Duke’s Chowder House.
“It’s completely sold out,” said Rag Banchal, front desk clerk at the Central Coast Inn in Cayucos.
“A lot of people have come,” said Emma Thieme, owner and lead designer of Maven Leather & Design.
“The beaches were definitely busier,” said Abe Tock, co-owner/partner of Cayucos.
“We’ve seen a lot of people come in because of the heat. It was around 110-112 when a lot of people came from Paso to the hills,” said George Coates, Cayucos Surf Company store manager.
“I would say it was definitely more traffic than normal,” said Chris Tatum, retail sales associate at 1.
Although the Cayucos will be hot this Labor Day weekend, nowhere near the triple-digit temperatures seen in the interior valleys, they’ll want to keep the crowds cool.
“I think it’s the weather. I think it’s the vibe. It’s breezy, everyone’s easy, you’re enjoying nature,” Thiem said.
Many restaurants ran out of supplies and hotels were fully booked.
“I ran out of a few beers, a keg of beer, and I got close to the French fries, but we hung in there,” Dorn said.
“Labor Day weekend was full. All rooms were sold out,” Banchal said.
Local businesses say the financial boost they received this weekend is worth it even for the holiday weekend.
“We doubled our sales last weekend,” Cote said.
“I’d say it was like a 10% increase,” Dorn said.
“I definitely feel like it’s helped all the businesses here in town,” Tatum said.
“Most of my business comes from the local community, so it’s great to pass through travelers,” Thieme said.
