What to do in Pismo Beach, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

A pier with a Christmas tree at sunset.
A coastal landscape with calm waters, surfers, and distant hills.
A wooden pier with benches overlooking the ocean.
A calm lake with green vegetation and sand dunes in the background.
A wooden pier with a sign reading "Pismo Beach" overlooking a beach with people and a coastal landscape.

Things to do

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

฿669
per traveller
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
San Luis Obispo Self Guide Walking Tour

San Luis Obispo: GPS-Guided Walking Audio Tour Via App

฿334
per traveller
San Luis Obispo: GPS-Guided Walking Audio Tour Via App
Long, Wide, Low and stable with Giant paddle tires, this is the Only REAL Dune Buggy Experience at the Oceano Dunes.

Dune Buggy, UTV or ATV Experience at Pismo Beach

฿4,696
per adult
Dune Buggy, UTV or ATV Experience at Pismo Beach
The Fremont Theatre is one of the last Streamline Moderne building in existence.

Essential Downtown SLO: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

฿334
per adult
Essential Downtown SLO: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Scenic Sidecar Vineyard Adventure San Luis Obispo

Scenic Vineyard Tour Adventure San Luis Obispo

฿1,506
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Scenic Vineyard Tour Adventure San Luis Obispo
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What to do in Pismo Beach

Stay near popular Pismo Beach attractions

A coastal city at sunset with a pier extending into the ocean, a lit-up waterfront, and a backdrop of mountains.

Pismo Beach Pier

9.2/10 (5,290 reviews)
This wooden pier stretches into the Pacific, offering panoramic ocean views and prime fishing spots. Stroll along at sunset, then explore the vibrant plaza with its illuminated Pismo Beach sign.
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Where to stay in Pismo Beach

Find the best Pismo Beach areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A coastal city at sunset with a pier extending into the ocean, a lit-up waterfront, and a backdrop of mountains.

Downtown Pismo Beach

If you're spending some time in Downtown Pismo Beach, Pismo Beach Surf Shop and Pismo State Beach are top sights worth seeing.

A coastal landscape with cliffs, a clear blue sky, and a calm sea.
Photo by Ann Sair
Open Photo by Ann Sair

Shell Beach

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

A pier extending into the ocean at sunset with a lifeguard tower on the left.

Pismo Heights

Though Pismo Heights may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Pismo Beach Surf Shop and Price Anniversary House.

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If you're spending some time in 855634304, Pismo Beach Premium Outlets and Yang Sheng Foot Spa are top sights worth seeing.

Pacific Estates

Though Pacific Estates may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Pismo Beach Premium Outlets and Pismo Beach Surf Shop.

Day trip destinations from Pismo Beach

A pier extending into calm waters with a clear reflection, surrounded by hills and a clear sky.

Arroyo Grande

A coastal town with a beach, pier, and hills in the background.

Avila Beach

A sunset over the ocean with waves reflecting the sunlight.

Grover Beach

A harbor with multiple boats docked, a rocky island in the background, and various plants in the foreground.

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 neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.16 kilometres from the city centre of Pismo Beach is Downtown Pismo Beach and Shell Beach is 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Pismo Beach with kids?
Whether you're travelling 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 neighbourhoods 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.