A Perfect Weekend in Pismo Beach: Your Complete Guide

Pismo Beach , located on California’s central coast, is a charming seaside city known for its beautiful sandy beaches, stunning ocean views, and relaxed atmosphere.

A weekend in Pismo Beach offers a mix of outdoor activities, local dining, and unique attractions. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the shore, explore natural beauty, or enjoy local culture, Pismo Beach has something for everyone.

Pismo Beach is conveniently accessible by car, plane, or train.

By Car:

• From Los Angeles: Pismo Beach is approximately a 3-hour drive north along Highway 101, covering around 180 miles. The scenic drive includes views of the Pacific Ocean and the rolling hills of California.
• From San Francisco: It’s about a 4-hour drive south, also via Highway 101, spanning around 250 miles. The route passes through the picturesque wine country of the Central Coast.

By Plane:

• San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP): Located just a 15-minute drive from Pismo Beach, the airport offers regular flights from major cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Phoenix, and Denver. Airlines serving SBP include American Airlines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines.

By Train:

• Amtrak: The Pacific Surfliner route stops at the nearby Grover Beach station, which is a short 5-minute drive from Pismo Beach. This scenic train route runs between San Diego and San Luis Obispo, offering stunning coastal views along the way.

Pismo Beach offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are a few recommendations:

Luxury:

• The Cliffs Hotel and Spa :

The Cliffs Hotel and Spa is an upscale hotel that offers stunning ocean views, a full-service spa, and fine dining. It features amenities such as an outdoor heated pool, a fitness center, and access to the beach.

Relax, rejuvenate, and relish the views at Cliffs Hotel and Spa.

• Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa:

Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa is another luxurious all-suite resort in Pismo Beach with beautiful accommodations, ocean views, and an on-site spa. The resort includes a gourmet restaurant, Lido, which offers farm-to-table cuisine.

Mid-Range:

• Inn at the Pier:

Inn at the Pier is located right on the Pismo Beach Pier. This hotel offers comfortable rooms with ocean views, a rooftop pool, and a restaurant. It’s within walking distance to many local attractions.

Sunsets and serenity at the Inn at the Pier.

• SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel:

SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel  offers a gorgeous ocean view, swimming pool, breakfast, WiFi, air conditioning, and if you’ve got kids with you, they stay for free! Its location is perfect for any beach activities–from surfing to enjoying a sunset–as the hotel is situated on a 5-acre bluff.

Budget:

• Pismo Lighthouse Suites:

Pismo Lighthouse Suites offers spacious rooms, a family-friendly atmosphere, and amenities such as a pool and game room. The suites include separate living areas and kitchenettes.

Family fun and oceanfront relaxation at Pismo Lighthouse Suites.

• Motel 6 Pismo Beach:

Motel 6 Pismo Beach is a no-frills option that provides basic amenities and a convenient location at an affordable price. It’s close to the beach and local dining options.

Navigating Pismo Beach is easy and convenient with several transportation options:

• Car Rental:

Car rental is ideal for exploring the wider Central Coast area, with options available at the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport and in downtown Pismo Beach. Renting a car provides the flexibility to visit nearby attractions at your own pace, such as the Oceano Dunes or the Edna Valley wine region.

• Public Transportation:

Public Transportatio. includes the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority (SLO RTA), which offers bus services connecting Pismo Beach with nearby towns and cities.

Additionally, the Pismo Beach Trolley provides seasonal service on weekends and holidays, making it a fun and easy way to get around town.

• Biking:

Biking is another great option, as Pismo Beach is bike-friendly with dedicated bike lanes and paths. Bike rentals are available at various locations throughout Pismo Beach.

• Walking:

Walking is perfect for exploring downtown Pismo Beach and the beach areas, which are highly walkable.

Arrive in Pismo Beach on Friday afternoon and check into your chosen accommodation.

After settling in, head straight to the main beach area near the pier. It is a perfect spot for unwinding after your journey.

Start with taking a leisurely stroll along the 1,200-foot-long pier. It’s a great spot for watching surfers, spotting marine life, and enjoying panoramic views of the coastline.

GOOD TO KNOW: The pier is a popular spot for fishing, with no fishing license required.

Take a relaxed walk along Pismo Pier and soak in the soothing ocean vibes.

Before you call it a day, catch the stunning sunset right on Pismo Beach!

When the sky lights up with vibrant colors, grab a blanket, find a comfy spot, and soak it all in.

Golden skies, and tranquil waves – soak in the breathtaking sunset at Pismo Beach.

After watching a stunning sunset, it is time for a nice dinner. My dining recommendations for the evening are:

• Splash Cafe:

Splash Café has been a local favorite since 1989 and often has a line out the door, but it’s worth the wait. Splash Café is famous for its clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl.

Chowder cravings satisfied at Splash Café!

• The Cracked Crab:

Another option for dinner is The Cracked Crab , where you can indulge in a variety of crab dishes in a cozy, nautical-themed setting. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its “Bucket for Two,” featuring a generous assortment of crab, shrimp, and other seafood.

Start your Saturday with a hearty breakfast and get ready for a day full of activities and exploration.

PRO TIP: Our go-to breakfast haven? Look no further than Penny’s All-American Café. Don’t miss out on their delectable French toast paired with perfectly poached eggs and crispy bacon. The portions are generous, so feel free to indulge or share!

After a hearty breakfast head to the OceanoDunes State Vehicular Recreation Area(commonly known as the Oceano Dunes ). These massive sand dunes cover about 3,600 acres, making them the largest dunes complex in California. 

Captivating views and endless sand dunes at Oceano Dunes. Perfect for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Getting from Pismo Beach to the Oceano Dunes is relatively simple. The most convenient way is to drive.

From Pismo Beach, you can take Pier Avenue south, which turns into Price Street. Follow Price Street until you reach Grand Avenue (CA-1 South). Turn left onto Grand Avenue and continue south until you reach Pier Avenue in Oceano. Turn right onto Pier Avenue and follow signs to the entrance of the Oceano Dunes.

Adventure awaits at Oceano Dunes! Revving up for a thrilling ride across the sandy expanse.

The Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area is one of the few places in California where you can drive on the beach. They are perfect for ATV riding, dune buggy tours, or even a simple hike.

PRO TIP: Make sure to check out the Dune Buggy, UTV or ATV Experience at the Oceano Dunes. For 2 hours, you can traverse sandy dunes and coastlines in a single or multi-person 4WD vehicle. It’s the ultimate off-roading experience, exclusive to this public beach.

If you prefer a more relaxed activity, then hands down, take a hike on the Oso Flaco Lake Trail located within the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area. 

The trailhead is accessible from Oso Flaco Lake Road , and the trail is approximately 1.5 miles long (3 miles round trip).

Strolling along the serene boardwalk of Oso Flaco Lake Trail, surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Key features include a boardwalk over Oso Flaco Lake, stunning views of sand dunes and the Pacific Ocean, and excellent opportunities for bird watching and nature photography.

The trail is easy and suitable for all ages, with parking and restrooms available at the trailhead.

Exploring the diverse landscapes of Oso Flaco Lake Trail, from wetlands to sand dunes.

If you’re visiting between late October and February, make sure to add the Monarch Butterfly Grove to your itinerary.

Thousands of monarch butterflies migrate to this grove every year, creating a mesmerizing natural spectacle. The grove is one of the largest overwintering sites for monarch butterflies in the United States, with peak viewing typically in November.

Watching the Monarch butterflies at the Monarch Butterfly Grove – a truly amazing sight!

GOOD TO KNOW: Getting to the Monarch Butterfly Grove is super simple: From Pismo Beach, take CA-1 N for about 2 miles. Take exit 190A for Grand Ave toward CA-227 S. Turn left onto Grand Ave, continue for about 2 miles, then turn left onto S Oak Park Blvd. Continue for 0.4 miles, then turn left onto Pismo Creek Estuary Nature Preserve. The Monarch Butterfly Grove will be on your right.

Next, it is time for lunch and you should stop by for a delicious Hoagies Sandwiches & Grill. Their extensive menu includes a variety of sandwiches, burgers, and salads.

Try their signature “Hoagie Burger” or the “Grilled Chicken Avocado Sandwich.”

Located on a bluff overlooking the ocean, Dinosaur Caves Park covers over 11 acres and offers stunning views and walking paths. It is a great spot to take a break and soak in the views. 

Dinosaur Caves Park offers stunning views and walking paths.

GOOD TO KNOW:  If you’re visiting Pismo Beach with kids, Dinosaur Caves Park is a must-see. It features exciting dinosaur-themed play areas that children will love.

Exploring the wonders of Dinosaur Caves Park – a perfect adventure spot for kids and families alike!

Pismo Preserve offers 880 acres of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails with breathtaking coastal views. Located just minutes from downtown Pismo Beach, this preserve is a great spot to visit.

The preserve is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, bobcats, and numerous bird species, providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation. 

PRO TIP: Make sure not to miss a hike on the Discovery Trail. It is a moderate 5-mile loop that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding hills. 

The Discovery Trail offers great views of the Pacific Ocean.

Downtown Pismo Beach is a vibrant spot brimming with shops offering everything from surf gear to local art and souvenirs.

Make sure to explore the charming streets lined with unique boutiques and galleries, where you can find the perfect moment of your weekend getaway.

Discover the charm of downtown Pismo Beach! From eclectic shops to mouthwatering eateries, there’s something for everyone in this bustling coastal enclave.

Tonight dine at Ventana Grill , known for its fresh seafood and spectacular ocean views.

Their menu features a blend of coastal cuisine and Latin flavors. Try the “Seafood Paella” or the “Grilled Swordfish Tacos”, or my favorite “Halibut Ceviche”. 

Halibut Ceviche at Ventana Grill in Pismo Beach.

Enjoy a leisurely Sunday morning before heading back home.

This morning head to Shell Beach , situated just north of Pismo Beach. This spot is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature.

The rocky shoreline of Shell Beach provides excellent opportunities for tide-pooling , allowing you to observe a diverse array of marine life up close.

From sea stars to hermit crabs, the tide pools are teeming with fascinating creatures waiting to be discovered.

GOOD TO KNOW: At Pismo Beach, you can join guided tide pool tours led by State Park ‘Roving Naturalist Program’ docents. It’s a great way to explore the beach’s marine life with these expert guides.

Shell Beach provides excellent opportunities for tide-pooling.

Clear waters and calm conditions  make Shell Beach an ideal destination for kayaking . Paddlers can explore the rugged coastline and admire stunning views of the cliffs and offshore rock formations.

Shell Beach is an ideal destination for kayaking. 

Return for Ventana Grill for their weekend brunch, featuring a variety of delicious options like crab benedict and churro waffles, all with stunning ocean views.

Another great brunch spot is Lido at Dolphin Bay Resort, offering a farm-to-table menu with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

The Edna Valley wine region is just a short drive from Pismo Beach.

Spend your afternoon sampling local wines at vineyards like Edna Valley Vineyard or Tolosa Winery.

The region is known for its cool-climate varietals, particularly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, allowing you to learn about the winemaking process.

GOOD TO KNOW: Edna Valley is home to over 30 wineries, making it a wine lover’s paradise.

Edna Valley is just a short drive from Pismo Beach making it a perfect afternoon wine tasting destination. 

Before leaving town, don’t miss the opportunity to unwind at Avila Hot Springs , where you can soak in natural mineral springs and rejuvenate your body and mind.

These springs offer both hot and warm pools, providing a therapeutic experience to soothe tired muscles and promote relaxation.

Avila Hot Springs offers the perfect way to end your Pismo Beach getaway on a rejuvenating note.

After a weekend of relaxation, adventure, and exploration, it’s time to head back home.

Whether you’re driving, flying, or taking the train, we are sure you’ll leave Pismo Beach with wonderful memories and a refreshed spirit!

• HIstory: The town’s rich history dates back to the Chumash Native Americans, and it was officially founded in 1846 by José Ortega. The name “Pismo” comes from the Chumash word “pismu,” meaning tar, which was gathered from the natural tar springs in the area.
• Weather: Pismo Beach enjoys mild weather year-round, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low-70s (Fahrenheit). The summer months are the warmest, while winters are cooler and can bring some rain.
• Wildlife: In addition to the monarch butterflies, Pismo Beach is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea otters, seals, and numerous bird species. Whale watching is also popular during the migration seasons from November to April.
• Annual Events: Pismo Beach hosts several annual events, such as the Pismo Beach Clam Festival, which celebrates the city’s clam-digging history, and the Classic Car Show, attracting car enthusiasts from all over the country.

• Parking: Parking can be limited in popular areas, especially during peak seasons. Consider exploring on foot or by bike.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local specialties like Pismo clams, Dungeness crab, and California wines.
• Beach Safety: Always check for current conditions and warnings before swimming or participating in water activities. Rip currents can be strong, so swim near lifeguard stations and follow their advice.

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