Things to do in Pismo Beach

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Pismo Beach

Types of activities

Where to stay

Pismo Beach Travel Guide

Pismo Beach showing tropical scenes, general coastal views and a sunset

Pismo Beach Pier which includes fishing as well as a small group of people

Pismo Beach showing general coastal views and surf

Pismo Beach featuring a sandy beach, views and general coastal views

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What to do in Pismo Beach

Popular places to visit

Pismo Beach Pier

Watch whales from the benches that flank this long pier offering unobstructed vistas of the ocean and the hilly environs.

After you stroll through the butterfly grove, take the Meadow Creek Trail down to the beach. It’s beautiful and not crowded.

Monarch Butterfly Grove

Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Monarch Butterfly Grove, a lovely green space in Pismo Beach. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

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Pismo Beach Premium Outlets

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Pismo Beach Premium Outlets during your trip to Pismo Beach. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.

The Spa at Dolphin Bay

You can take time to visit The Spa at Dolphin Bay during your travels to Pismo Beach. Stroll along the seaside or visit the spas in this family-friendly area.

California's Pirate Cove near Pismo Beach in the spring of 2025

Pirates Cove

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Pirates Cove during your trip to Pismo Beach? Stroll along the seaside or discover the beautiful sunsets in this relaxing area.

Waiting for the Sun to set at Pismo Beach, Oceano Dunes Natural Preserve, California, USA

Pismo Preserve

You can take time to visit Pismo Preserve during your travels to Pismo Beach. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this relaxing area.

Price Anniversary House

Learn about the local history of Pismo Beach with a stop at Price Anniversary House. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Pismo Beach Surf Shop

You can take time to visit Pismo Beach Surf Shop during your travels to Pismo Beach. Discover the beautiful sunsets and spas in this family-friendly area.

Pismo Lake Ecological Reserve

Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Pismo Lake Ecological Reserve, a lovely green space in Pismo Beach. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.

Areas of Pismo Beach

Downtown Pismo Beach

While visiting Downtown Pismo Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Pismo State Beach and Pismo Beach Surf Shop.

Shell Beach

Visitors to Shell Beach enjoy its beaches, and if you want to do some exploring, Eldwayen Ocean Park is worth a stop.

Pismo Heights

While Pismo Heights isn't home to many top sights, Price Anniversary House and Pismo Beach Surf Shop are some notable places to visit nearby.

Beautiful colourful summer sunset behind the valley of the San Luis Obispo Bay, viewed from South Palisades Park in Pismo Beach, California

Sunset Palisades

While Sunset Palisades might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Avila Hot Springs and The Spa at Dolphin Bay.

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If you're spending some time in 855634304, Pismo Beach Premium Outlets and Pismo Lake Ecological Reserve are top sights worth seeing.

Pacific Estates

Though Pacific Estates might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Price Anniversary House and Pismo Beach Premium Outlets.

Arroyo Grande

Avila Beach

Morro Bay showing mountains and a bay or harbor

San Luis Obispo

Frequently asked questions

Is Pismo Beach worth visiting?

One of the most common things to do in Pismo Beach is explore Pismo Beach Pier. Tick this leading attraction off your to-do list, then experience more of the area's coastal beaches and watersports.

How do I spend a day in Pismo Beach?

Pismo Beach Pier and Avila Hot Springs are two awesome places to begin your getaway adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Pismo Beach while you're in town too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Pismo Beach?

Pismo Beach Pier is one of the top tourist attractions in Pismo Beach and should be high on every to-do list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Pismo Beach?

Three days in Pismo Beach is more than enough to visit the city's main attractions. Many guests book for two days on average. Pismo Beach Pier, Avila Hot Springs and Avila Beach are among the most popular sights. Like to see more? Stick around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots such as San Luis Obispo.

Is Pismo Beach a walkable city?

Some top sights in Pismo Beach, including Pismo Beach Pier and Sans Liege Wines, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.16 kilometers from the city center of Pismo Beach is Downtown Pismo Beach and Shell Beach is 3 kilometers away.

What are some activities to do in Pismo Beach with kids?

Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a schedule filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Pismo Beach with kids.

What to do in Pismo Beach for adults?

There's no shortage of things to do in Pismo Beach, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Edna Valley Vineyard or Peacock Cellars.

Are there free things to do in Pismo Beach?

In Pismo Beach, Pismo Beach Pier is a top spot for anyone planning to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the local neighborhoods and parks, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a great way to discover the best free things to do in Pismo Beach.