Best Things to Do in Pismo Beach for First-Time Travelers

If you’re making your first trek to Pismo Beach, you’re in for a treat! Get ready to experience some of the most breathtaking parts of central California’s coastline, with everything from cliffs overlooking the ocean to stunning vineyards. Come experience the fresh seafood, fascinating wildlife, and lively culture all around you. You may be overwhelmed by all of the wonderful Pismo Beach things to do, but we’ve created this handy guide to let you know what you simply can’t miss. Best of all, you can reach every destination here from our Pismo Beach or Grover Beach vacation rentals!

the pacific coast

Attractions

Pismo Beach is a paradise for nature lovers, so if you are in town from late October through February, you will definitely want to spend some time at the Monarch Butterfly Grove. Every year, thousands of breathtaking monarchs migrate to coastal California, and the Monarch Butterfly Grove is the best place to see them. You’ll learn about the butterfly from the experienced docents, and you’ll be right in the center of a lot of other things to do in Pismo Beach, so you can easily fit this one into your schedule.

If there is a history buff in your group, be sure to take them to Price Historical Park. You can learn all about the history of Pismo Beach and Chumash culture as you explore the four acres of land. The park is open 365 days a year, so you can come no matter when your vacation is! In addition to the history here, you can also experience hiking and biking trails to get your exercise in.

fields of flowers in pismo beach

Activities

If you are looking for beach views during your stay, not to worry! The Pismo Beach Pier is perfect for fishing or just watching the way to go by, or you might want to head to Margo Dodd Park to have lunch in the gazebo! Dinosaur Caves Park is the most picturesque spot in the area, and Pismo State Beach is the perfect place to take the family.

You have to take some time to visit the incredible wineries of Pismo Beach while you’re on vacation. Tastes of the Valleys is a local wine shop and bar with an incredibly friendly staff and wide selection of local options. At Claiborne and Churchill Winery, you can have a tasting overlooking the garden, or head to Chamisal Vineyards for a scenic vineyard tour and tasting.

There are so many wineries to discover, you can fit one in every day!

Restaurants

When you’re dining in Pismo Beach, you have to experience the fresh seafood at SeaVenture Restaurant. This oceanfront dining room serves up new American dishes that the whole family is sure to love. For a more upscale experience, don’t miss out on Oyster Loft, where you can enjoy your raw bar fare on the patio overlooking the water.

If you want a more casual experience, The Cracked Crab gives you the perfect place to escape and indulge in the freshest crack-your-own shellfish. You can also head to The Splash Cafe, a quaint burger stand that’s also known for its fish and chips and clam chowder.

Plan Your Vacation

Our experienced staff is dedicated to helping you plan the vacation of your dreams, and you might find that on the last day of your getaway, you don’t want to leave! Contact us today to learn more and to start planning your first vacation to Pismo Beach.

Events

Pismo Beach has ton of fun events all throughout the year. The annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration is a must-see during the summer, and the Clam Festival has been a fall staple in Pismo Beach for almost 75 years. In the spring, come out for the Central Coast Orchid Show and Sale or the Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival, and in the fall, be sure to experience Harvest on the Coast. These are just a few of the events happening in Pismo Beach year-round!

Book Your Pismo Beach Vacation Rentals with Beach Bum

In between all the fun, you’ll need a relaxing Pismo Beach rental to call home. We are proud to offer affordable and comfortable accommodations that will make you feel right at home throughout your stay.