Things to Do in Pismo Beach

The iconic 1,200-foot pier is the heart of Pismo Beach. Walk to the end for stunning ocean views, watch for dolphins, and join local anglers casting their lines. On clear days you can see the dunes at Oceano to the south. Open 24 hours. Always worth a stroll, but especially good at sunset.

The most unique experience near Pismo Beach. This is the only California state beach where you can drive a street-legal vehicle on the sand. Rent an ATV or dune buggy and spend the day conquering 1,600 acres of rolling dunes right on the Pacific Coast. Several rental outfitters operate near the Pier Avenue entrance. Go early on weekends to beat the crowds.

Every year from November through February, tens of thousands of monarch butterflies gather in the eucalyptus grove just north of Pismo State Beach. One of the largest monarch overwintering sites in the United States. Docents are on-site weekends to answer questions. A quiet, genuinely magical experience that most visitors do not expect.

The main beach runs for miles and is wide, flat, and perfect for families. Swim, surf, boogie board, or walk along the shore. Surf fishing is popular here, and beach bonfires are allowed in designated fire rings. One of the cleanest and most accessible beaches on the Central Coast. Low waves make it good for younger swimmers.

A beautiful coastal bluff park in Shell Beach with sweeping ocean views, a playground for kids, and walking paths along the cliff edge. The park gets its name from a fiberglass dinosaur that used to stand on-site in the 1950s. A great place for a picnic or watching the sunset without the downtown crowds. Locals come here specifically to escape the pier area.

The pedestrian promenade along the beach is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. Beach volleyball courts are set up on the sand, and the plaza hosts events and festivals throughout the year. This is the social hub of downtown Pismo Beach. Surrounded by restaurants and shops within easy walking distance.

Pismo Beach has reliable, mellow waves that are good for beginners and intermediate surfers. The beach break near the pier is the most popular spot. Several surf schools operate out of downtown and offer lessons for first-timers. Board and wetsuit rentals are available near the beach entrance. Water is cold year-round, so bring or rent a wetsuit.

Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available near Avila Beach, just a few miles from Pismo. Avila Bay is calmer and more sheltered than the open Pacific, making it better for beginners. The waters around Avila Beach often have sea otters, harbor seals, and sea lions. On a calm morning it is one of the most peaceful things you can do on the Central Coast.

About 20 miles south of Pismo Beach, Montana de Oro is one of the most beautiful coastal parks in California. Over 8,000 acres of wild coastline, tide pools, sea caves, and hiking trails with dramatic ocean views. The tide pools at Spooner's Cove are outstanding. Plan for a half day at minimum. No services on-site, so bring water and snacks.

Three miles north of Pismo Beach, Avila Beach is smaller, quieter, and warmer. The bay is protected from wind and the water temperature runs several degrees warmer than the open Pacific at Pismo. A charming downtown with restaurants, wine tasting rooms, and a small pier. Worth the short drive for a change of pace, especially with kids.

A 900-acre hiking preserve on the hills just east of downtown Pismo Beach. The trails rise quickly and offer panoramic views of the ocean, the Five Cities area, and the surrounding hills. About 8 miles of trails in total, ranging from easy to moderate. Dogs are welcome on leash. Not well-known among tourists, which means you will often have the trails to yourself.

Just one hour north of Pismo Beach on Highway 101, Paso Robles is home to over 200 wineries. The region is known for Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Rhone varieties. Downtown Paso Robles has excellent restaurants and a lively wine-tasting scene around the town square. The Edna Valley appellation, closer to Pismo, is worth a stop on the way back.