This is your ultimate guide to planning a dog-friendly vacation in Pismo Beach! We have many places to stay including Oceano rentals, Arroyo Grande rental homes, Grover Beach, and more!
Traveling can be incredibly exciting, but when you’re a pet owner, it can also be very stressful. You’re typically stuck trying to find a friend or family member that can take care of your pet while you’re away, or if that doesn’t pan out, you have to leave your pet at a boarder. You might be worried that your animal isn’t being taken care of properly, and boarding can cost a ton of money on top of what you’re already spending on your vacation.
But what if you could bring your dog with you on your vacation? When you visit Pismo Beach, you can! Pismo Beach is an awesome place to travel with your dog, and you won’t have to give up any of the activities on your itinerary.
Can I Take My Dog to the Beach?
When you’re vacationing in Pismo Beach, you’re going to want to spend some time at, well, the beach! But are you going to be able to bring your dog with you? While you might not be able to bring your pet to every stretch of shoreline in the city, there are a few dog-friendly beaches near Pismo Beach. One of the most popular locations for dogs and humans alike is Olde Port Beach.
Olde Port Beach is located in Avila Beach and sets itself apart from the area’s other pet-friendly beaches with one important factor: dogs are allowed off-leash! Your dog will need to be under voice control, so make sure they’re close enough to hear you at all times. This beach is calmer than the main Avila City Beach, so you’ll have a more relaxing experience, but keep in mind that there aren’t a ton of amenities here. Nearby Fisherman’s Beach also has a leash-optional policy, even earning the nickname “Dog Beach”!
If you don’t mind keeping your dog on a leash, you can find several more options for a pet-friendly beach day. Head north on Highway 1 to reach Cayucos State Beach, which allows dogs as long as they’re leashed. Closer to your lodging in Pismo Beach, the area to the left of the main pier welcomes dogs any time of day.
Parks that Allow Dogs
For more pet-friendly things to do in Pismo Beach, be sure to take your dog for a leisurely stroll! What dog doesn’t love going for a walk with all new surroundings while his best friend is by his side? Dinosaur Caves Park is an incredible Pismo Beach attraction for the whole family, including your four-legged friend. There’s a stunning view of the ocean as well as a children’s playground, in case you have little ones. Stop by on the first Sunday of the month for art walks!
Nearby in San Luis Obispo, El Chorro Regional Park is an incredible spot with a special off-leash dog park. Your dog will be able to run around, make friends, and drink from the designated water spigots to keep him cool. As for the humans, you’ll be able to stroll through the botanical gardens, take your pet along the hiking trails, or enjoy a delicious lunch thanks to the barbecue facilities.
In Morro Bay, Del Mark Park is popular with nature lovers and their pets. This park has over 9 acres to explore with plenty of walking paths that welcome dogs on leashes. Some other popular parks in the area include Laguna Lake Park in San Luis Obispo, Woof-Pack Park in Santa Maria, and Elm Street Dog Park in Arroyo Grande.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants
Once you’ve done some fun dog-friendly activities, you’re bound to get hungry! Luckily, there are tons of great pet-friendly restaurants in and around Pismo Beach where you and your pup can grab a bite to eat. For breakfast or lunch, Honeymoon Café is the place to be. This establishment has been serving locals and guests to Pismo Beach for more than 40 years and offers a wide range of healthy and wholesome meals. They change their menu seasonally to utilize the freshest produce and can even accommodate special dietary needs like vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free.
You might not think California is the place to get great barbecue, but the folks at Mo’s Smokehouse BBQ are happy to prove you wrong. Stop into one of their locations in Pismo Beach or San Luis Obispo to get mouthwatering BBQ pork ribs, sandwiches, wings, and anything in between.
For a wonderful farm-to-table meal that both you and your dog can enjoy, Chop Street is the ultimate destination. Guests particularly love their artesian pot pies! The outdoor seating area is perfect for you and your furry friend to take a rest and enjoy a great meal. Other popular restaurants in the area that are pet-friendly include Moose Deli & Brew, Shell Café, Wooly’s, and Ventana Grill.
Dog-Friendly Pismo Beach Vacation Rentals
At the end of a busy day of sightseeing, you and your pup are sure to be tired! You’ll need a comfortable rental to relax and get some well-deserved rest. At Beach Bum, we’re proud to offer a wide selection of pet-friendly vacation rentals in Pismo Beach! We maintain pet-friendly rentals in Oceano and Grover Beach as well, so no matter where you want to stay, your pet is welcome, too.
Our pet-friendly rentals range from 1 to 3 bedrooms, so no matter how many humans are in your group, there will be plenty of room. Additionally, our rentals have plenty of outdoor space for your pet to enjoy, and you’ll be just minutes away from any of the pet-friendly attractions we’ve already mentioned. We can even help you narrow down the ideal rental for your pet based on their breed and weight! Keep in mind that pets are welcome to our rentals on an approval basis.
Additional Pet Parent Information
If you bring your pet on vacation but would still like to enjoy an activity that doesn’t allow dogs, Love Dogs Camp is a safe, comfortable, and affordable boarding option to keep your pet entertained for an afternoon. Dogs are placed into small groups so they each get the attention they deserve, and all dogs are interviewed and pre-screened to ensure the safety of all. Your pet will get to run around over five acres and will never be left alone, so you can enjoy your activities and know your dog is being well-loved.
Your pet might get into a little too much fun at the dog park, but you don’t have to be stuck with a dirty pup! The lovely staff at K-NINE Mobile Bath are happy to get your pet all clean again. Their services include eye cleaning, dematting, bathing, coat conditioning, blow-drying, and more!
Need a pet accessory while you’re in town? Tails has got you covered. This store has everything from collars and leashes to pet food and treats. They carry all of the big-name brands you know and love and are always happy to make a recommendation for the product your furry friend is sure to love.
For a pet-friendly location that offers a little bit of everything, head to That’s FETCH! in Santa Maria. The Bowtique and Beastro Bar has products like pet apparel, treats, food, toys, and even beds. They also carry CBD products for the humans in your group! The company also manages a Grooming Spaw to get your pet looking good as new again. Let your pet have a little pampering, too!
Plan Your Next Visit
If you’re looking to plan the ultimate dog-friendly vacation, Pismo Beach is a great destination. Whether it’s your first time in Pismo Beach or you come back every year, there’s always something new for you and your furry friends to explore. Contact us today to learn more about our pet-friendly vacation rentals in Pismo Beach and to start planning your getaway!
