Pismo Beach

Classic California beach town

MIDWAY BETWEEN San Francisco and Los Angeles on California’s Central Coast, Pismo Beach is so beloved that both Northern and Southern California residents claim it equally. The picture of an ideal California beach town, complete with a sandy strand and wooden pier, is exactly what you get with Pismo Beach.

The optimal beginning to a visit here is to take a stroll on the iconic Pismo Beach Promenade, offering panoramic views of the beautiful coastline. From here, visitors can also get a glimpse back at the homes, hotels, restaurants and shops in town. Pause a moment, smell the salt air, and plan your Pismo Beach itinerary.

Wine Country and Cuisine

It’s easy to add quality wine-tasting experiences to your Pismo Beach experience, because the winemaking regions of Edna Valley, Arroyo Grande Valley and Avila Valley are located only 10 minutes outside of town. In town, many restaurants include local wines on their extensive wine lists, to be paired with seasonal wine country-inspired cuisine.

One of the benefits of Pismo Beach’s Central California location is its access to the bounty of land and sea. Taste fresh culinary creations at new restaurants Oyster Loft, Flagship and Mattie’s Bay & Eatery, while you can still get favorite dishes at tried-and-true Lido, Marisol, Splash Café and Yanagi Sushi & Grill.

Pismo’s Great Outdoors

Beaches serve as Pismo Beach’s front yard. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an intrepid adventurer or a lover of leisure—the sandy shores along the Pacific Coast are available for nearly any level of adrenaline or relaxation. Sports enthusiasts can find plenty to do, whether their favorite pastime is golf, fishing, surfing, kayaking, kiteboarding or horseback riding. Romantics enjoy lingering on the beach to watch the sunset, sea otters, and migrating whales. And a visit to the grounds of the cliffside Chapman Estate allows beautiful coastal views.

With six state beaches, two nature preserves and three state parks within a 30-minute drive of town, Pismo Beach is a treasure for outdoor adventurers. Discover the best on land by foot or bike, while your top options for water excursions are kayak, surfboard and stand-up paddle board.