Things to Do

Our 8 miles of towering sand dunes are often used in movie and television shows. They are ideal for horseback riding, picnics, hiking, guided nature walks and camping. For the adventurous four wheel ATV riding on the dunes is a thrill not to be missed. For more information visit https://www.experiencepismobeach.com/beach-and-outdoors/atv-rentals/

The Oceano sand dune area is recognized by scientists, conservationists, government agencies, and the public as the finest, most extensive coastal dunes remaining in California. For more information visit https://www.experiencepismobeach.com/beach-and-outdoors/oceano-dunes/

Just off Highway 1 half a mile south of Pismo Beach lies the Monarch Butterfly Grove. The only period to see butterflies in the grove is from November to February. Call the Interpretive Center at 805-474-2664 for further information, directions, or to schedule group excursions.

One of the largest clam species found along the California coast is the Pismo Clam. If hungry clammers and sea otters don’t get in the way, the clams can grow to be seven inches long. The right area to calm is south of Grand Avenue (south of Pismo Beach), and the legal size is 4 1/2…

There are naturally heated mineral springs at Avila Beach where you can swim in the pool or have a hot mineral bath. Sycamore and Avila Hot Springs are two of California’s top mineral springs. https://www.avilahotsprings.com/ https://www.sycamoresprings.com/

The Pismo Preserve, which spans over 900 acres, provides outdoor enthusiasts with absolutely remarkable and diversified recreational options. Over ten miles of existing ranch roads and trails wind their way through the property, providing ready-to-use pathways for hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian riding. From the Irish Hills to Point Sal, these routes pass serene oak…

Pismo Beach is gaining a reputation as a gourmet and wine destination, as well as a burgeoning art community. Pismo Beach offers a classic Central California coastal cultural journey, from local art galleries and shows to finely produced products. Information for visitors to Pismo Beach: From the Visitor Information Airstream on the Pismo Pier, the…

Shopping by the sea doesn’t get any better than in Pismo Beach with over 40 premium retail outlets. For a complete shopping guide for Pismo Beach visit the Pismo Beach Chamber of Commerce. Welcoming, quaint stores sell arts and crafts, sea sport gear and equipment, and casual California surf wear all in a picturesque beach…

To the west, crashing waves; inland, rolling vineyards. This may sound like a dream to some, but the wine and waves lifestyle is a reality for visitors of Pismo Beach On a short drive east, on Price Canyon Road, you’ll find more than a dozen picturesque wineries, tasting rooms and winery gift shops, which are…

For nearly 45 years, Sheldon’s Bait Shack, a family-owned business, has been a staple on Pismo Beach Pier. Sheldon’s sells poles, bait, candy, snacks, and more seven days a week.

The renovated historic Pismo Beach Pier hosts a trio of Vintage Airstreams, with each offering different experiences to enjoy, including Sunsets at Pismo, a visitor’s center, and Sheldon’s Bait Shack.

Colorful, illuminated seven-foot-tall letters spell out Pismo Ocean, and the Whale Surfing Playground, which overlooks the beach, is decorated with the colors and components of nature. The local marine life, surfing culture, and nature around Pismo Beach provided inspiration for this Whale Surfing Playground. Surfing is coupled with the interesting natural phenomena of a Humpback…