Top Pismo Beach Attractions & Activities

What is there to do in Pismo Beach? Boy, are we glad you asked! From surfing and hiking to ATV rides, Pismo Beach is a mecca of fun on the Central Coast, with diverse attractions and things to do for all ages and interests.

This casual beach town offers a variety of attractions and festivals that the whole family can enjoy. Guests can take in the sights of classic California with a stroll along Pismo Beach, Shell Beach, Grover Beach, or Avila Beach, where no two sunsets are the same. Play a round of golf on scenic fairways, ride the dunes in a four-wheel ATV, gallop along the coast by horseback, or fish from our 1,200-foot pier. Shoppers can also visit the Pismo Beach Premium Outlets, which offer stores like Nike, Levi’s, Guess, and Polo Ralph Lauren.

When planning your Pismo Beach adventure, our staff will be happy to recommend everything from famous attractions to more off-the-beaten-path things to do.  

Pismo Preserve

Explore over 800 acres of thriving wildlife and vegetation, towering oak woodlands, and unbeatable panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Discover great educational and recreational opportunities for you and the family, as well as locals and visitors of all ages.

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Pismo Beach Pier

The 1,200-foot Pismo Beach Pier is the largest pier in San Luis Obispo County! Walk down its beautiful diamond-shaped platforms, enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, and savor a cool treat.

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Oceano Dunes

Located less than 10 minutes from our hotel near Pismo Beach, Oceano Dunes is the perfect site for a range of activities and sights to enjoy. There is space for recreational activities such as hiking, camping, surf fishing, surfing, swimming, and dune buggy rides, as well as spotting wildlife

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Monarch Butterfly Grove

An enchanting part of California’s natural history is the Monarch Butterfly migration. Located off Highway 1 in Pismo Beach, you can find a beautiful grove of Eucalyptus Trees inhabited by these breathtaking butterflies. The best time to spot these delicate creatures is between January and February!

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Sunset Drive-In

Travel back in time to the land where indoor movie theaters don't exist yet. Movies are more fun to watch in the comfort of your car with your favorite snacks of popcorn and nachos! It is one of the last remaining drive-in theaters in California!

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California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo is a public university in San Luis Obispo, California. It is the first of three polytechnics in the California State University system. The university is organized into six colleges offering 65 bachelor's and 39 master's degrees.

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